Crossword Genius

In a hole, you may need a lot more than cash! (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chasm

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'in a hole you' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'need a lot more than cash' is the wordplay.
'need' becomes 'has' (I can't explain this - if you can you should believe this answer much more).
'a lot' becomes 'm'.
'more than' says to put letters next to each other.
'cash' becomes 'c'.
'has'+'m'='hasm'
'hasm' put after 'c' is 'CHASM'.

'may' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chasm that I've seen before include "Wide gap" , "Deep cleft in ground" , "Gorge" , "Yawning gap" , "Gaping hollow" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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